Tricuspid Atresia -- Child

Definition

Tricuspid atresia is an abnormal development of the right side of the heart. It includes a missing valve between the upper and lower chamber. Tricuspid atresia makes it difficult for your heart to efficiently pump blood to the lungs to get oxygen. Holes will be present in the walls between the left and right side of the heart that cause oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix. These holes are necessary to allow blood to be brought to the lungs before a repair can be done. It is often associated with a smaller than normal right lower chamber and abnormalities of the pulmonary artery and aorta.

Treatment

Treatment is important to prevent severe complications such as
heart failure. Treatments may include:

Medication

Medication may be given to:

Improve the levels of oxygen in the blood.

Manage the level of fluids in the body to decrease workload on the heart.

Treat heart failure.

Prevent a respiratory infection called bronchiolitis.

Oxygen may also be given to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood.

Surgery

Surgery is often needed right away to restore normal blood flow to the lungs. Follow-up surgeries at needed at ages 3-6 months and 2-5 years.

The goal of surgery is to:

Improve blood flow within the lungs and heart.

Restore connections between the heart, lungs, and body

The exact surgery will depend on the type and severity of defects that are present. For example, a shunt may be placed to increase blood flow between the sides og the heart. Later, a series of surgeries will be done to further reroute blood flow through the heart, lungs, and body.

Lifelong Monitoring

Your child will have regular exams from a heart specialist. Your child may also need antibiotics before certain medical or dental procedures to prevent a heart infection.

Prevention

Preventing fetal heart defects may not always be possible. Good prenatal care may reduce some type of congenital heart defects. Prenatal care includes:

Visiting the doctor regularly to monitor your health and the health of the baby

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.